Summer Heat Drives a Soft Revolution in German Office Attire
14.06.2026 - 12:55:47 | boerse-global.de
Hamburg – The days of stifling suits and rigid dress codes in the German workplace are giving way to linen, loose cuts and pastel hues. Stylists released fresh recommendations on Sunday for keeping cool without sacrificing professionalism. Meanwhile, at least one tech firm has scrapped its conventional dress rules entirely in favour of a visual lookbook – a move employment lawyers say can reduce friction between staff and management.
AFAS, a software company based in the Netherlands with a strong German presence, replaced its classic dress code with an illustrated guide. The goal: communicate clear expectations for a professional appearance without a list of commandments. Employment attorney Maarten van Gelderen notes that employers do have a legal right to give instructions regarding workplace clothing, as long as the rules are objectively justified. A lookbook, he says, can serve as a practical orientation tool and help avoid misunderstandings.
Natural fibres, wide cuts and a quieter palette
Breathable materials such as linen are at the heart of current styling advice. Linen shorts in particular have emerged as a versatile piece – formal versions with creased pleats can be paired with silk blouses or loafers. The fabric, derived from flax fibres, scores points for sustainability and becomes softer with each wash. Its drawback? A tendency to wrinkle.
Stylists also recommend wide trousers, blouses and pastel colours. Three-piece suits and vests are considered modern office options. Falling out of favour: ill-fitting suits, piqué polo shirts, loud statement necklaces and very high heels.
Accessories and summer staples
Beige pumps are making a comeback in the office. Models from Lasocki or Mexx promise both comfort and a professional look. The summer wardrobe is rounded out by vitamin-C creams with high sun protection, special hair serums and quality handbags.
In Hamburg, fashion label Lascana presented new collections heavy on feminine lace, floral details and strong colours – a trend visible across the industry.
A new toolkit for HR
The shift from prescribed rules to loose visual references is not limited to AFAS. Several companies are developing their own lookbooks as internal style guides. For HR managers looking to modernise their dress codes, these guides combine current styling trends with legal guidance – and they are often available as templates or free downloads from industry media portals.
